Fuengirola - Things to see

Things to See in Fuengirola

By Dee McMath

Sohail Castle

This landmark castle dating back to Moorish times is emblematic of Fuengirola. Clearly visible on the bend of the A-7 (old N-340) coastal highway at the last exit in the direction of Marbella, El Castillo Sohailstands proud on the hill, at the west end of the 5 miles of Fuengirola beach. After the Moorish occupation, the Christians took power and the castle once again became the fortress of the town. It was structurally altered over the centuries to suit the needs of the different ages. For a short period at the beginning of the 19th century it was home to the French troops during the War of Independence. For many years, the castle was abandoned and left in ruins, until restoration began in 1989, from which time it has become an integral part of the heritage of the municipality. It is now a focal point, not only of the town's history but also, during the summer, it becomes a popular theatre and home to many excellent open air concerts and festivals. A great deal of work has gone into the overall improvement of the castle and the surrounding area, with well kept gardens and good paths and roadways leading up to it. There is also parking in the vicinity for easier access and, perhaps sadly for the impression of the arriving visitor from the west a modern hotel was built on the land to the west in the early 2000's.

Finca del Secretario (Secretary's Estate)

The Finca del Secretario (the Secretary's Estate) is a most interesting and historically valuable site, including a fish salting factory and small spa area which was discovered in 1970 when building works were underway on the railway line at Los Boliches. It was here that the well known marble statue, popularly known as the 'Venus of Fuengirola' was found. This and many other historic artifacts can be seen at the History Museum.

Roman Springs & other historic remains at Torreblanca

In Torreblanca Roman thermal springs were discovered with a Roman site at the entrance to what is now the urbanisation of Torreblanca as we know today. Remains of a 4th century fish salting factory was also found, along with a graveyard with 32 Visigoth burial tombs.

Parish Church

The Parish Church of 'Nuestra Señora del Rosario Coronada' is in Plaza de la Constitución (the main square) in Fuengirola. The town, this church marks the very centre of the Fuengirola. This church has daily mass (normally between 18:00 - 20:00) and a very popular venue for weddings, baptisms and memorial services throughout the whole year. It is also the focal point for many religious festivals, especially during Easter Holy Week. The building is beautifully kept, with a very ornate interior and an interesting baroque façade. There is a clock and bell tower and the chimes ring out across the square marking time passing in this busy Spanish town.Tel: 952 474 022 (The best time to phone with enquiries is from Monday to Friday 17:00 - 20:00)

Plaza de la Constitución

Main square in the centre of Fuengirola and a nice place to wander around. The Town Hall is on the square. The statue in the centre is dedicated to the 'Catholic Monarchs' Ferdinand II of Arigon and Isabella I of Castile who's allaince defeated the Moors in 1492.

Museo de Historia - History Museum

The Museo de Historia (history museum) is quite a gem in the midst of such the busy resort town that Fuengirola has become over recent years. It has several rooms of artifacts from past civilizations, including the Visigoths, Carthaginians and Moors, with a well mapped out history of its ancient settlers. Since tourism is very much part of the history of Fuengirola today, there is even a section dedicated to tourism during the 1970's. Amongst other very interesting exhibits is well structured virtual video of the different phases of the history of the Sohail Castillo (Castle) as well as very interesting old photos and information about the fishing heritage of Fuengirola and Los Boliches.

Paseo Maritimo - seafront Prom

The promenade is officially called Paseo Maritimo Rey de España. (Promenade). The prom extends 8km long along the entire lengh of Fuengirola's magnificent beaches and the municipal district. It reaches Carvajal district ( and train station in the east) and thanks to the cable stayed bridge over the Rio Fuengirola you can walk to Castle Souhail in the very west. About half way along the Paseo is the huge monument to the Peseta. Together with the port and marina it serves as a landmark.